THE SIGNIFICANCE AND CHARACTERISTICS OF SOFT SKILLS IN THE PROCESS OF EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES.

Purpose: To identify the factors determining the opinions of employees and employers regarding the importance of soft skills in the process of disability management. Design/methodology/approach: The objective of the study will be accomplished by conducting an anonymous survey at businesses employing people with a recognized disability condition, directly and indirectly (through agencies). Findings: based on the analysis of the research history in the project under consideration, identification of factors was attempted. Research limitations/implications: The limitations in the study process arise from the diagnostic survey method used. The respondents’ opinions (both open-end and multiple-choice answers) are based on declarations, leaving the researcher with a degree of uncertainty as to whether the study participants gave their honest answers. Possible inconsistencies may be due to the respondents’ fear of consequences, overinterpretation, misunderstanding the questions. Practical implications: The study results may be used by organizations employing people with disabilities, they serve as a reflection on building soft skill-based relationships, show the interviewees’ perspectives and attitudes to the issues being discussed. Based on the findings, managing staff can pay attention to those aspects of management that affect cooperation in diverse teams and eliminate problems that arise from employees’ lack of knowledge and concerns by offering workshops and training. Social implications: The study may contribute to an improvement of the knowledge and understanding of the matters of disability and have a positive effect on forming attitudes and opinions (emotional, cognitive and executive factors). Originality/value: The paper is targeted at employees, managing staff, emphasizing the importance of soft skills based on an individual’s sensitivity in the process of disability vs. diversity management as a key component of good collaboration among employees, professional success in the personal dimension. The paper is addressed at employees, managing staff, researchers, students, practicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]